MESA, AZ — One way to stay cool during Arizona's hotter months is to grab a tube and float down the Salt River. Depending on who you ask, it could be considered a summer staple.
If you're looking to check this off the summer bucket list,Salt River Tubing announced Monday that its tubing season would start on Saturday, May 11.
Here is everything you need to know.
How do I get there?
Salt River Tubing's headquarters is located within the Tonto National Forest. The GPS address is 9200 N. Bush Highway, Mesa AZ 85215. You can view turn-by-turn directions on Salt River Tubing's website.
How much is it?
The cost is the same as last year. It is $17, plus taxes and fees, which includes tube rental and shuttle to the river. There is no additional cost for parking. One driver's license is required for up to five tube rentals.
What are the hours?
The hours are 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily, depending on weather and water flow conditions. The last tube rental is at 1 p.m. The final bus pickup is at 6:30 p.m.
Float times can last between 2 - 5 p.m.
How old do you have to be to float down the river?
To float down the river, you have to be at least eight years old and at least four feet tall. If a child does not meet the age and height requirements, no one in the group will be allowed to rent tubes or take the shuttle to the river, according to a news release.
Upcoming themed days
May 18 - Rocking Rodeo Roundup
May 25-27 - Memorial Day weekend (trash pickup)
June 8 - Salt River Pirates
June 22 - Super Heroes Splashdown
July 4 - Fourth of July
July 13 - Spooktacular Halloween
July 27 - Mega Hawaiian Hula
August 17 - MADCAP Mardi Gras Magic
August 31 - September 2 - Labor Day weekend
What should you bring and what should you leave at home?
To bring:
- Driver's license
- Cash, debit or credit card
- Life vest (recommended for children, can be bought for $6 at Salt River Tubing)
- Ice chests and coolers with plastic cans or bottles (glass is not allowed); cooler tubers can be rented for $17
- Tennis shoes or closed-toed shoes
- Hat or visor
- Food, snacks and water; they recommend two bottles of water
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Sunglasses
Not to bring:
- Glass (coolers will be inspected)
- Drugs
Visit www.saltrivertubing.com for more information.
